Columbus welcomes you and your four-legged friends

Experience Columbus has launched a new initiative to help dog owners know about businesses where their pets are welcome (MGN Online)

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) —

Experience Columbus announced its launch of a dog-friendly travel initiative that encourages travellers to bring their four-legged friends along when visiting the city.

Columbus offers nearly 90 dog-friendly travel options for any budget, including lodging, attractions, parks and businesses. As part of the initiative, each participating location will have a special window sticker that says says “Dogs Welcome Here” and a custom water bowl.

“At Experience Columbus, it’s our responsibility to watch consumer travel habits and trends so that we can continue to improve the city as a visitor destination,” said Kari Kauffman, vice president of tourism. “We’re responding to the increased demand we’re seeing from visitors in the marketplace to bring their pets along. This pet-friendly initiative is strengthened by the number of amenities and offerings Columbus has to accommodate them.”

According to the American Pet Products Association, 37 percent of pet owners take their animals on the road, which is up from 19 percent 10 years ago.

For more information on the dog-friendly travel initiative and a list of lodging, shopping and attracts throughout the city, visit www.DogsInCbus.com.